Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto was hospitalized in critical condition Monday after police used force to disperse a large student protest in Ranchi [1], [2], [3].
The escalation marks a turning point in a weeks-long standoff between the state government and thousands of job aspirants. The unrest highlights deep-seated frustrations over the integrity of civil service examinations and the perceived failure of state oversight.
Police used lathicharge, tear gas, and water cannons to push back demonstrators near the Jharkhand Vidhan Sabha premises [1], [2]. The clash occurred as the student protest entered its 18th day [1]. The demonstrators are protesting alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the Jharkhand JPSC-JSSC examinations [4], [5].
Mahto, a leader of the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha, had been on a hunger strike for nine days [1]. Reports indicate he lost 10.5 kg during the strike [1]. His health deteriorated rapidly after he joined the march toward the state Assembly on Aug. 10 [3], [5]. Doctors said his condition is critical [2].
The protesters are demanding the cancellation of the JSSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam [4]. They are also calling for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged leakages to ensure a fair recruitment process [4], [5].
Thousands of JPSC-JSSC aspirants participated in the march toward the Assembly [5]. The police action on Monday followed a period of increasing tension as students refused to leave the area until their demands were met [1], [3].
“Devendra Nath Mahto lost 10.5 kg during hunger strike”
The hospitalization of a prominent student leader following a state-led crackdown likely increases the political volatility of the JPSC-JSSC exam controversy. By demanding a CBI probe, the protesters are signaling a total lack of trust in state-level investigative bodies, potentially forcing the government to either concede to federal oversight or risk further civil unrest among the youth population.
